Legal Definitions - works

The term "works" has several distinct meanings in a legal context, generally referring to physical structures or establishments.

• In its most common usage, "works" refers to an industrial or manufacturing facility, such as a factory, plant, or mill, where goods are produced, processed, or assembled.
• More broadly, it can simply mean any building or structure erected on land.
• The term also appears in specific legal phrases:
  • New works: In civil law, this refers to a structure that has just begun construction on a piece of property. An adjacent landowner whose property might be harmed by the completion of such a structure can seek a denunciation of new works, which is a legal action to stop or alter the construction.
  • Public works: These are structures or projects built by a government entity for the benefit and use of the general public, funded by public money.

Here are some examples illustrating the use of "works":

• Example 1 (Industrial Facility): A large automotive company announces plans to build a new assembly plant in a rural area, promising thousands of jobs. This expansive facility, complete with production lines, robotics, and administrative offices, would be legally referred to as "the works" of the company, signifying its industrial establishment.

  Explanation: This illustrates the definition of "works" as a manufacturing plant or industrial establishment where goods are produced.

• Example 2 (New Works and Denunciation): A developer starts constructing a massive commercial building on a lot bordering a historic residential district. Residents become concerned that the new structure will cast permanent shadows over their homes and significantly increase traffic congestion. They might file a denunciation of new works to legally challenge or halt the construction, arguing that the newly commenced building would cause substantial injury to their property values and quality of life.

  Explanation: This demonstrates "new works" as a newly started structure and the legal remedy of "denunciation of new works" available to an affected adjacent landowner.

• Example 3 (Public Works): Following a series of severe floods, the state government allocates funds to construct a new system of levees and flood barriers along a major river. This extensive infrastructure project, designed to protect communities and funded by taxpayer money, falls under the category of "public works."

  Explanation: This exemplifies "public works" as a government-funded structure built for public benefit and use.